Download File - Scotia Homes

HOME OWNER’S
INFORMATION PACK
for
Charleston, Cove
(applicable to ground, first and second floor flats - plots 208 to 219)
www.scotia-homes.co.uk
Please read this document in conjunction with the NHBC booklet ‘Guide
to your new home – A practical guide to looking after your new home’
Rev. 1 03.12.14
Contents
Page
GENERAL MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY _________________________________________ 4
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR GAS-FIRED CENTRAL HEATING AND
HOT WATER SYSTEM __________________________________________________________________ 4
HOMESERVE EMERGENCY COVER ________________________________________________ 6
RADIATOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ________________________________________________ 7
HEATING AND HOT WATER INSTALLATION ___________________________________ 8
GAS SYSTEM _____________________________________________________________________________ 8
HOT AND COLD WATER SERVICES ________________________________________________ 9
KITCHENS _____________________________________________________________________________ 10
EXTRACTOR FANS (DMEV SYSTEM) _____________________________________________ 10
VENTILATION AND AVOIDING CONDENSATION ___________________________ 11
COMMUNAL DIGITAL TELEVISION AND SATELLITE INSTALLATION __ 12
TELEPHONE INSTALLATION _____________________________________________________ 12
WINDOWS ______________________________________________________________________________ 12
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION __ 15
IF AN ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT FAILS ______________________________________________ 16
SMOKE, HEAT & CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS ________________________ 16
DOOR ENTRY SYSTEM ______________________________________________________________ 17
FLAT ENTRY DOORS ________________________________________________________________ 18
INTERNAL DOORS ___________________________________________________________________ 19
FIRE RATED INTERNAL DOORS __________________________________________________ 19
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WALL TILING __________________________________________________________________________ 19
SHOWER WALL PANELLING (WHERE FITTED) _______________________________ 20
INTERNAL DRAINAGE ______________________________________________________________ 20
FLOOR FINISHES _____________________________________________________________________ 21
ROOF SPACE (WHERE APPLICABLE) _____________________________________________ 21
CONSTRUCTION OF WALLS, PARTITIONS, FLOORS & CEILINGS _________ 22
FIXING TO WALLS, CEILINGS OR FLOORS – IMPORTANT NOTICE ______ 23
EXTERNAL FIXINGS _________________________________________________________________ 24
COMMUNAL STAIRWELL ___________________________________________________________ 24
COMMUNAL PARKING ______________________________________________________________ 24
MOCK CHIMNEYS ____________________________________________________________________ 24
EFFLORESCENCE ____________________________________________________________________ 25
EXTERNAL AREAS ___________________________________________________________________ 25
CARBON DIOXIDE MEMBRANE __________________________________________________ 26
SURFACE AND RAIN WATER DRAINAGE CONSIDERATIONS ______________ 26
METERS ________________________________________________________________________________ 27
LOCAL AUTHORITY REFUSE AND RECYCLING COLLECTION ____________ 27
COUNCIL TAX _________________________________________________________________________ 28
SCHEDULE OF TEST CERTIFICATES ____________________________________________ 28
SCHEDULE OF MATERIALS ________________________________________________________ 29
NOTE:
The information contained in this document is for our standard flat types and may
not cover specific variations requested by you.
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GENERAL MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY
You are responsible for the regular maintenance and repair of your flat internal finishes, services,
fittings and fixtures (the scheme manager will arrange maintenance and repair of external areas
such as roof, walls etc. and also communal areas such as the stairwell and car parking - all as
described in the Deed of Conditions).
Please take the time to read over the following general comments regarding maintenance work
which are applicable to any internal work you may undertake to your flat.
Regular maintenance work is required for all homes to keep them at their best in the years to
come and to ensure that they continue to be a safe home environment. We recommend that you
employ competent tradesmen/contractors to carry out the maintenance work, however if you
decide to carry out maintenance work on your home yourself, then there follows a list of some of
the basic rules to bear in mind;
Always plan the job thoroughly in advance.
Consider any risks - is there adequate ventilation? Do you need any safety equipment? Can the
job be done another way to make it safer? If you are in doubt then do not attempt the job
yourself – seek advice from a professional or employ a skilled tradesman or contractor.
Check any materials you are going to use for any warnings or precautions and heed the material
safety recommendations.
Always use the right tools for the job and use them in accordance with their instructions.
If you intend to work at height please be aware of the risks involved. Try to avoid working at
height if at all possible but if you decide it is necessary then please make sure your ladder or
stepladder is in good condition and securely held in place. There is a large amount of information
and recommendations available on the subject of working at height on the internet or in most
good public libraries – take the time to familiarise yourself with the risks and recommendations
involved in working at height before carrying out the job.
If there is risk involved, try and avoid working alone.
Dispose of any surplus materials and waste according to the manufacturer’s instructions,
adherence to Local Authority waste regulations, and consideration for the environment.
Always keep a well stocked first aid kit.
Please also refer to your NHBC ‘Guide to Your New Home’ for more information on
maintenance.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR GAS-FIRED
CENTRAL HEATING AND HOT WATER SYSTEM
Introduction
Your home has been fitted with a gas-fired heating system serving radiators and a domestic hot
water supply.
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The gas–fired boiler is located in a hall cupboard and you will find the operating and
maintenance instructions for the boiler in your handover pack.
If, after referring to the user information on boiler controls in the boiler instruction manual, you
are unable to find the answers to any boiler problems and the problem is an emergency which
has arisen during the first 24 months after your legal date of entry to the house, then please
contact HomeServe (please see section on HomeServe below for more details). If the fault is not
an emergency (as described in the HomeServe cover summary) then please contact Scotia during
normal office hours.
You are responsible for the annual maintenance and servicing of the boiler, this should be
arranged through any reputable, Gas Safe registered, plumbing and heating contractor.
Heating and Domestic Hot Water Controls
The system has the following controls:1. Boiler isolating switch.
2. Programmable Room Thermostat
3. Thermostatic radiator valves to radiators (except on the by pass radiator/s)
1. Boiler Isolating Switch
This switch will be found on the wall in the boiler cupboard.
This switch is to isolate the electrical supply to the boiler and should be left on at all times.
Only use this switch if a fault develops on the boiler.
2. Programmable Room Thermostat
Your home has a programmable room thermostat located on the wall, typically in the hall or in
the kitchen/living room area and linked to a remote sensor located in the hall.
The programmable room thermostat controls the boiler, telling it when you require central
heating and hot water. The programmer has the facility to give several on/off times.
Temperatures can also be selected for each on/off time. When the heating is selected on the
system it will operate until the set temperature is achieved. Note that the temperature is
measured in the hallway by the remote temperature sensor. The remote temperature sensor
should not be covered or otherwise obstructed as this may impair its ability to accurately measure
the temperature.
Picture of a typical programmable room thermostat (this picture shows a Danfoss TP7001 programmable room
thermostat- the model installed may vary depending on your flat type);
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When the system is selected off, the boiler will not operate unless the temperature in the hallway
drops below the setback temperature selected. You can select your minimum desired
temperature, normally this can be set between 12 and 16°C. Please refer to the manufacturer’s
instructions in your handover pack for the programmable room thermostat for further
instructions.
3. Thermostatic Radiator Valves
Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV’s) are fitted for comfort control i.e. 1 – low level heat, 5 –
maximum level heat. They are fitted to all radiators except radiators located where there is a
room thermostat sensor. They are essential to the full efficiency of your heating system and allow
you to lower temperatures in unoccupied rooms thus reducing heating costs. TRV’s sense room
temperature changes in individual rooms and adjust the flow of heated water through the
radiators to maintain the desired temperature. Depending on level of comfort required, 2 – 3
should be selected. Please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions in your Handover Pack for full
details.
Picture showing a typical Thermostatic radiator valve, Note- the type fitted in your home may vary.
Central Heating
Should your central heating or hot water fail to work, please ensure that all of the procedures laid
out in the boiler manufacturer's literature are followed. Failure to do this may result in a charge
being made for an unnecessary call out.
Bleeding of Radiators
This should not be required with a sealed system. However, radiators feeling warm at the bottom
but cold at the top would indicate air in the radiator. There are airing points normally at the top
of the radiator. Use an air-bleeding key to turn clockwise to reduce air. You can do this by
inserting the key and turning it anti-clockwise, then once the air stops a small amount of water
will be discharged, quickly turn the key clockwise to tighten. Check pressure gauge on boiler, if it
is below that recommended in the manufacturer's instructions, then it will be necessary to top up
the system. See enclosed boiler user guide for full instructions.
HOMESERVE EMERGENCY COVER
Your flat is covered under HomeServe’s Home Emergency Assistance Cover for a period of 24
months from your legal date of entry. This service provides emergency cover for your heating
system in the event of a loss of central heating or hot water providing the equipment has been
maintained and serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
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It also extends to blocked drains, burst pipes (within your flat) and damaged window and door
locks where there is a risk to security.
In an emergency situation (for the avoidance of any doubt, this is as defined in the Cover
Summary as provided to you direct by HomeServe) where any of the above is affected you
should contact HomeServe directly instead of Scotia. At the time of writing, the emergency
contact number for HomeServe is 0800 247999.
Where any problem in your flat is not classed as an emergency by HomeServe you should
contact the Scotia customer care department during normal office hours.
Note that any problems in communal stairwell and external areas should be reported to the
scheme manager.
RADIATOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Users should ensure that those who may come into close proximity to hot radiators are aware of
the risks of burns.
Users should take any necessary steps to minimise the risks of burns from hot radiators (for
example where there are very young children in the room). Where applicable, consideration
should be given to placing guards in front of the radiators or reducing the temperature of
individual radiators by turning the thermostatic radiator valve to a low setting.
Radiators are heavy items and are securely fastened to the wall on installation, with appropriate
fasteners to secure the radiator bracket and suit construction of the wall.
Decorative covers (such as the decorative perforated MDF or timber covers that you can
purchase from DIY stores) will significantly reduce the output of a radiator and thermostatic
radiator valves should not be fitted inside these radiator covers (as this will stop the valves from
working efficiently). These covers are not recommended as they will, by consequence, impede an
individual room’s heat requirement, which your new heating system has been carefully designed
to provide. The only exception to this would be the comments above regarding safety of young
children. If you do need to fit a radiator cover for this purpose then you should use one of the
metal mesh type covers, similar to a fire place guard, which will not impede the flow of heat from
your radiator into the room.
Radiators should not normally be used for the mounting of clothes airers, cat beds or other such
fixtures. The mounting brackets of the radiator are designed to support the weight of the radiator
itself and water contents, allowing for an adequate safety margin, additional weight may
compromise this margin and cause risk of failure, leaks and potential hot water burns.
Appropriate facilities are required by Building Regulations for internal and/or external drying
facilities and these are provided (please see “Ventilation and avoiding condensation”). Radiatormounted airers and other devices may lead to excessive internal moisture and any chips/damage
caused to the radiator itself may compromise the protective coating and potentially lead to
corrosion/failure, which may not be covered by warranties.
Note regarding curtains – Heavy curtains or lined curtains drawn over the windows are an
effective way of reducing any heat loss through the windows during the autumn and winter
months. The sooner you draw the curtains in the evening the more heat you will save. However,
please note that if there is a radiator located below the window, and the curtains are too long and
cover the radiator then much of the heat generated by the radiators will not find its way into the
room and will instead be wasted out the window. Curtains covering the thermostatic radiator
valves will also interfere with the operation of the valves.
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HEATING AND HOT WATER INSTALLATION
Heating and hot water are provided by an Alpha InTec 34C wall mounted, high efficiency
condensing combination boiler with a gas saver flue gas heat recovery unit.
Please note that to obtain the maximum performance and efficiency benefits the gas saver flue
must be switched on. Turning off the gas saver flue will mean you lose efficiency benefits.
A copy of the user manual, installation & service instructions, inspection, commissioning and
service record logbooks for the system are enclosed with your handover pack.
An annual gas service of the boiler and inspection/maintenance of the associated
equipment, in accordance with the above instructions, is required to be carried out by
GasSafe registered personnel. Failure to carry this out will invalidate the manufacturer’s
and NHBC warranties.
Note for flats with boilers located in a internal cupboard– flats which have the boilers hung
on an internal partition will have a flue running from the boiler through the flat at high level to
the outside (typically the flue runs above an adjacent bedroom wardrobe). Access hatches have
been installed in the ceiling below the flue to allow access to the flue for future maintenance and
inspection purposes. During the annual service your heating engineer may require access to this
flue through these hatches. This note does not apply where boilers are hung on an external wall
and the boiler flue goes straight through the wall to the outside.
GAS SYSTEM
Never obstruct gas boiler flue outlets or any ventilation, if provided, to the boiler. Never tamper
with the gas installation or equipment.
Any alterations to the gas supply pipework or work in construction with any gas appliance
should only be carried out by GasSafe registered personnel.
You are responsible for the annual maintenance and servicing of all gas appliances such as the
gas boiler, oven or hob (as applicable to your flat), this should be arranged through any
reputable, Gas Safe registered, plumbing and heating contractor.
If you suspect a gas leak:
1.
Extinguish all naked flames.
2.
Do not use any electrical switches or appliances
3.
Turn off the gas at the meter (the gas shut off is the red lever next to your gas
meter- the gas meter is located in the boiler cupboard if your gas meter is installed
internally, or in an external brown ground box if your gas meter is located
externally). Please make sure you know exactly where your gas shut off point is
located in case you need to shut it off in an emergency.
4.
Open all doors and windows.
5.
Call the National Gas Emergency Service on its emergency number which is in the
telephone directory under ‘GAS, Gas Emergency’. There is no call-out charge. The
current emergency number at date of preparation of this document is 0800 111999.
This service operates 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.
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Picture of a typical gas meter installed internally within a flat– with the gas shut off lever shown arrowed;
HOT AND COLD WATER SERVICES
Mains Cold Water Service
The stopcock for the incoming cold water service is located in the hall cupboard next to your flat
entry door (stopcock is located at low level).
There is also an underground stopcock located in a boundary box in the footpath to the front of
the flats (each stopcock shuts off the water to 3 flats).
Domestic Hot Water
The Alpha Intec 34C boiler produces domestic hot water in an energy efficient manner and the
operation of this is fully explained in the enclosed Instruction Manuals. Please also refer to the
notes in the Heating and Hot Water Installation section above.
Sanitary Ware/Taps
Sanitary ware should be cleaned in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions which are
enclosed in your Handover Pack.
The manufacturer of the bath (where fitted) recommends the use of an anti slip mat when a
shower is installed over the bath.
Thermostatic mixing valve (where there is a bath installed)
A thermostatic mixing valve to limit the hot water temperature at the bath tap to a maximum of
46°C is fitted below the bath.
The thermostatic mixing valve manufacturer’s instructions recommended that you arrange for
initial temperature checks to be carried out six weeks after occupation of the property, and then
for an annual check to be carried out. This is to test the water temperature from the tap to make
sure that the mixing valve is operating properly and to ensure the maximum limit of 46°C is not
exceeded.
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Hot Water Temperature (kitchen sinks and wash hand basins)
The hot water from your kitchen sink taps and wash hand basins can be very hot depending
upon the boiler settings. The hot water can initially have a low temperature as cooler water sitting
in the pipes is discharged but can then become hot suddenly. Appropriate care should be taken
to avoid risks of scalding.
KITCHENS
Kitchen Appliances, Sink Units and Worktops
Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for operating and cleaning of kitchen appliances, sinks,
units and worktops, these are enclosed in your Handover Pack.
Cooker Hood (if applicable to your flat) – Please note that the kitchen cooker hood has been
installed for use in the recirculation mode and a charcoal filter set has been fitted. The charcoal
filters normally require changing after every three/four months or more frequently if used more
than 3 hours a day. Replacement charcoal filters are available from on-line retailers. Also, please
note that the metal grease filter should be cleaned at least once per month. As with all cooker
hoods, there can be a fire hazard if the grease and charcoal filters are not cleaned and replaced as
recommended in the manufacturer’s instructions. Please refer to the instruction manual for your
cooker hood which is contained in your Handover Pack for more details, and for other
important operating and maintenance information for your cooker hood.
Connecting Appliances – (where applicable)
Electrical connections for cookers and other electrical appliances requiring wiring work should
be made by a qualified electrician using the pre-fitted wiring and fittings installed for this
purpose.
When fitting a dishwasher or washing machine, please ensure the blanked end of the waste pipe
tee piece has been removed. Note – this is not applicable where a ‘standing waste’ pipe has been
provided. Please also ensure that the water supplies and wastes are securely connected to the
pipework.
Please also note that, where Scotia have not installed a washing machine but have left a space for
one with a cold water supply adjacent to it, then the home owner is responsible for removal of
the cap that has been fitted to the cold water washing machine valve – please ensure you remove
this cap before making the water connection to your washing machine. Please also ensure that
the appliance water supply and waste pipe is securely connected to the house pipework before
turning the appliance on.
EXTRACTOR FANS (dMEV SYSTEM)
Greenwood Airvac Unity CV2GIP mechanical extract fans have been fitted in your flat. These
are continuously running single point dMEV (decentralised Mechanical Extract Ventilation) fans
with GIP (Guaranteed Installed Performance). The fans run continuously at a low (extremely
quiet) speed and are automatically ‘boosted’ to a higher speed when required (the fans boost
automatically using their humidity sensor). It is essential that the fans remain in operation at all
times (unless switched off for maintenance) to maintain good air quality.
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Pictures of the Greenwood Airvac CV2GIP fan
This is an energy efficient fan designed to provide an economical ventilation solution to the
modern home. It utilises SMART Technology to control humidity and boost run on times to
minimise the periods of time when it is running at its highest speed, minimising nuisance running
noise and unnecessary energy wastage and heat loss typically associated with ‘traditional’ extract
fans.
Please note that, in conjunction with Greenwood Airvac, where ‘wet rooms’ (such as bathrooms)
have windows we have installed trickle vents in the windows- these are to allow you to provide
extra ventilation to these rooms if required. The statement in the fan User/Homeowner Guide
saying that trickle vents should not be installed in the same rooms as the fan can be ignored.
More information on these ventilation fans can be found in the User/Homeowner Guide
contained in your handover pack. Please read and comply with these instructions carefully to
ensure their continuing smooth operation.
VENTILATION AND AVOIDING CONDENSATION
Condensation will be a problem in all new homes if adequate background heating and ventilation
is not used. All new homes need ‘running-in’ and we recommend that you read carefully the
section within the NHBC booklet: GUIDE TO YOUR NEW HOME, ‘Reducing
Condensation’.
Most windows are fitted with “trickle” ventilators at the top of the window. These can be
opened or closed to allow more or less trickle ventilation. If you close the window trickle vents
the dMEV fans described in the previous section will still continue to draw fresh air into your
home, however, particularly during the ‘running-in’ period we recommend that they are left fully
or partially open to maximise the fresh air entering your home.
The following are general guidelines for your information.
To deal with condensation, take these two steps:
1. Produce less moisture
Ordinary daily activities produce a lot of moisture very quickly.
Cooking: To reduce the amount of moisture in the kitchen, cover pans and do not leave kettles
boiling, open a window to allow excessive amounts of steam to be ventilated to the outside.
Washing clothes: Put washing outdoors to dry if you can. Alternatively, please dry the washing in
the bathroom (which is designed to accommodate drying clothes) with the door closed – the
humidistat function of the extractor fan will remove the moist air to the outside (also if weather
conditions permit – if there is a window in your bathroom it can be opened to help ventilate the
moist air to the outside). If you have a tumble dryer, ventilate it to the outside (unless it is the
self-condensing type). D.I.Y. kits are available for this.
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Drying clothes on radiator-mounted airers or on airers in rooms other than the bathroom may
lead to excessive internal moisture.
2. Ventilate to remove moisture
You can ventilate your home without making draughts.
Some ventilation is required to expel the moisture, which is produced all the time, mostly just by
normal breathing of occupants. Keep a small window ajar or a trickle ventilator open when
someone is in the room.
You need much more ventilation in the kitchen and bathroom during cooking, washing up,
bathing and drying clothes. This means opening windows (where fitted) to assist in the
ventilation of moisture to the outside and ensuring that the extractor fans are in full working
order.
Close the bathroom door when in use for drying clothes. This helps prevent the moisture
reaching other rooms, especially bedrooms, which are often colder and more likely to get
condensation.
COMMUNAL DIGITAL TELEVISION AND SATELLITE
INSTALLATION
A television aerial socket has been provided within the Living Room area (specific room may
depend on flat type, please refer to plans), to which a communal digital aerial and satellite signal
will be fed. Your individual alterations may have requested additional points or a ‘returned’ signal
to additional points in other rooms. Further information is provided in the Handover Pack.
TELEPHONE INSTALLATION
The main telephone point is located in the Living Room area (specific room may depend on
apartment type, please refer to plans), it is compatible with any BT approved phone.
It is your responsibility to arrange connection to your chosen telephone service provider and
arrange final connection of secondary socket wiring to main point.
WINDOWS
Your flat has white uPVC Sheerframe 7000 system ‘Tilt + Turn’ inwards opening windows or
‘Reversible’ outwards opening windows (depending on your particular flat- 2nd floor flats have
fully reversible windows to the living room area). All windows are manufactured by CMS Enviro
Systems Ltd.
The windows are fitted with lockable window handles to all ground floor windows and standard
(non-locking) handles to all first and second floor windows. Please refer to the manufacturer’s
Operating and Maintenance Manual for more information on opening your Tilt + Turn and fully
reversible windows, also a copy of the relevant pages have been included below for your
information.
Extract from the window manufacturer’s Operating and Maintenance Manual showing a typical Tilt + Turn
window (note that the winkhaus restrictor catch is not fitted to your windows – see notes below);
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Important Note for Tilt + Turn Windows - please note that the ‘Tilt’ opening function is
intended for general day to day use. The ‘Turn’ opening function (where whole sash is opened
into the room) is intended for cleaning and emergency escape purposes only. Care should be
taken when using the ‘turn’ open function that the sash (or the trickle ventilator installed in the
head of the sash) does not cause damage to the plasterboard window ingoes when fully open.
The window should never be left unattended when open in the cleaning/escape ‘turn’ position.
Extract from the window manufacturer’s Operating and Maintenance Manual showing a typical Reversible
window;
Important Note on Reversible Windows- the reverse function of the reversible window
(when it is opened beyond the initial safety restricted position and is turned fully around as
shown in steps 5 and 6 above) is intended for cleaning the outside of the window and emergency
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escape purposes only. Care should be taken when using the reversible function to clean the
outside of the window - you should never lean out of the window to push it open- instead hold
the top of the sash and pull down as shown above. Note also that the windows should not be
opened beyond the initial restrictor point or ‘reversed’ for cleaning in adverse weather conditions
(high winds can cause the window to move unexpectedly resulting in damage to the window or
injury to persons cleaning the window). For tall windows a suitable pole extension should be
used for cleaning the glass. The window should never be left unattended when open in the fully
reversed position. For normal day to day ventilation purposes the reversible windows should be
opened only as far as the initial restrictor allows.
A key is supplied to operate the lockable ground floor handles and care should be taken to
prevent damage to the handle by trying to force it open when lock is engaged.
First floor window handles are non-locking (no removable key) to comply with the
requirements of the Building Regulations in respect of emergency fire escape. Second
Floor window handles are also fitted as non-locking type. However, the Building Regulations
recognise that individual home owners may want to fit additional locking mechanisms to first
floor windows after they have moved in to their new home (for example where there are small
children in the room) and if you wish to install any of the large variety of ‘child restrictor catches’
or any other additional locking mechanism that are available to your first (or second) floor
windows then please note that they must be a ‘quick release’ type (without a key which might be
lost) - a type which does not hinder escape through the window in the event of an emergency (a
typical suitable example, a winkhaus restrictor for a tilt & turn window, is shown in the above
‘tilt + turn’ extract from the window manufacturer’s operation and maintenance manual).
Reversible windows have ‘built-in’ restrictor catches, however there are also additional ‘quick
release’ type catches available should you wish to fit additional locking mechanisms to a
reversible window. The restrictor must also be suitable for the type of window and we also
recommend that they are fitted by a skilled tradesman and that particular care is taken to ensure
that they are fitted strictly in accordance with the restrictor catch manufacturer’s instructions. An
incorrectly fitted additional locking mechanism can damage the window and lead to window
guarantee problems. Advice can also be obtained from the window supplier (refer to the
Schedule of Materials for contact information).
Glass may be cleaned with either a proprietary household glass cleaner (following the
manufacturer’s instructions) or a solution of soapy water. Glass can be easily scratched, therefore
ensure heavy grime or dirt is removed carefully using soapy water.
uPVC frames should be cleaned every 3 months with a soap and water solution.
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A non abrasive proprietary cleaner suitable for plastic may be used for more stubborn blemishes
following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Avoid using solvent based or abrasive cleaners as these will damage the uPVC frames or glass.
Please refer to the CMS Operating and Maintenance Manual (contained within your Handover
Pack) for more information including recommendations on lubricating and general maintenance.
Notes regarding glass coatings:
To comply with current building regulations all double glazed units installed in your home will
have a low emissivity coating. Low emissivity (Low-e) glazing is a vital component of an energy
efficient window or French door. It has a surface coating that allows short wavelength heat from
the winter sun to enter your home through the glazing, while reflecting back into the room the
long wavelength heating produced by your heating system. This reduces heating costs and
minimises internal condensation. Please note that this Low-e coating has considerable advantages
but you should be aware that there are some minor features, due to the coating of the glass,
which you can see in some or all of the following ways;
• As a tint in the glass
• As a ‘haze’ when viewing through the glass at some angles and in some lighting conditions
• By the appearance of condensation on the outside of the glass under certain weather
conditions (which is positive proof that the glass is preventing heat loss from your home)
• There may be minor blemishes visible arising from the coating process and the tint may also
change between individual double glazed units if the units are made from different batches of
glass. These are not detrimental to the functioning of the unit and are not a defect.
Please note that if you are replacing any of your double glazed units in the future you should
ensure that your glazier uses low emissivity glass in your windows.
Note regarding glass specifications:
In addition to the note regarding Low-e coatings above, you should also be aware that certain
windows may have either laminated or toughened safety glass installed. This ‘safety glazing’ is
installed to comply with the Building Regulations. Any future replacement glazing units should
be to the same specifications as originally fitted. Any competent glazier will be able to identify
the glazing specification used and you should ensure that lower specifications are not used.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE ELECTRICAL
INSTALLATION
The Consumer Control unit for your flat is located in a hall cupboard. It contains a labelled main
isolator, RCDs and circuit breakers or “trip switches”.
The consumer control unit is a device that controls the electricity supply to your home, splitting
the incoming electric supply into various electrical circuits around your home.
The consumer control unit contains the Mains Switch, RCBOs (Residential Current circuit
Breaker with Overload protection), RCD’s (Residual Current Devices) and MCBs (Miniature
Circuit Breakers). The main switch is normally ‘ON’. In order to isolate all supplies, switch to
‘OFF’.
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There are two RCDs in your consumer unit. Each RCD protects a section of the consumer unit.
They are designed to ‘trip’ when there is an electrical leakage to earth thereby giving protection
to personnel. An RCD would normally trip before an MCB.
These circuit breakers and RCDs are all designed to trip if there is a fault in a circuit, or if a faulty
appliance is switched on. This helps to prevent serious accidents that may result in damage and
injury. Under fault conditions these will be in the ‘tripped position’.
IF AN ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT FAILS
A circuit may trip OFF. If this happens, you should follow the procedure set out below.
1. Check with the aid of a torch whether the RCD (mid position) or MCB (fully down) is in the
OFF position.
2.
Switch RCD (press down then push to the fully up position) or MCB to ON position.
3. If the RCD does not re-set, switch off all the MCBs, re-set the RCD then switch on each
MCB individually until the faulty circuit is identified.
4. To identify the cause of the fault switch off all appliances in that circuit, re-set the RCD
and MCB, then switch back on each appliance until the defective appliance is found.
Over-filling kettles, irons etc. can cause this type of fault.
N.B.
It is important to ensure that the bulbs used in light fittings do not exceed the rating for that
fitting.
NOTE: Electricity is dangerous and can kill. If you are unsure of any
aspect of your electrical installation, please consult a qualified
electrical contractor.
SMOKE, HEAT & CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS
Your flat is fitted with a smoke detector and a CO (Carbon Monoxide) detector, both located in
the hall and also a Heat Detector (typically located in the kitchen area). Depending on your flat
type a second CO detector may have been fitted in the bedroom.
These alarms are mains operated with battery back up and connected to bedroom lighting
circuits. The smoke detector is extremely sensitive to smoke and dust particles of any kind and
can be activated by the likes of burning toast. The heat detector in the kitchen area is less likely
to cause ‘false alarm’ problems as it is not responsive to any type of smoke or fumes, only heat
such as generated by a chip pan type fire (but not from smoke caused by burning toast or
similar). The CO detector monitors Carbon Monoxide levels and its alarm will activate if safe
levels are exceeded.
You must read and fully familiarise yourself with the instructions for the smoke, heat and CO
detectors. Copies of the instructions are contained in your hand over pack and are also available
for downloading from the manufacturer’s website- the instructions contain vital information on
the operation and maintenance of your detectors.
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If the smoke detector activates you should check the property and, if no reason for its activation
is found, it could be a nuisance alarm caused by cooking smoke reaching it or something similar.
If this occurs, open a window to clear the smoke or dust and the alarm will cease and test/
maintain the detector as described in its instructions.
If the heat detector activates you should follow the advice contained in the heat detector
instructions.
If the CO alarm activates please carry out the instructions contained in your carbon monoxide
alarm instructions. Depending on the type of CO alarm fitted these instructions typically include
the following -ventilate the area (open windows and doors), turn off all fuel appliances where
possible, evacuate the property, get medical help for anyone suffering from the effects of CO
poisoning, ring your gas supplier or other supplier on their emergency number, do not re-enter
the property until the alarm has stopped (if the alarm has been silenced by pressing the
Test/Hush button, wait at least 5 minutes to allow the alarm to check that the CO has cleared).
Do not use the fuel burning appliance(s) again until they have been checked by an expert. In the
case of gas appliances this must be a Registered Gas Installer.
To reset or to test the smoke, heat and CO detectors follow the manufacturer’s instructions as
enclosed in your Handover Pack.
The back up batteries should be changed as recommended by the manufacturer and an
intermittent beep normally indicates that the battery needs to be replaced. The CO detector
sensor module typically must be replaced after 5 years of operation (refer to its instructions).
DOOR ENTRY SYSTEM
Maintenance of door entry system- the door entry system will be maintained by the scheme
manager. If a fault is found or suspected in the door entry system please report it to the scheme
manager.
Operating instructions for the door entry handset- When a visitor pushes your flat number on
the door entry panel (located on the wall beside beside the front and rear stairwell access doors)
your handset will ‘ring’. To speak to the visitor lift the handset and this will connect you to the
door entry panel. If you wish to let them into the stairwell press the button marked with a key
(button A as shown on the user guide below)- which will release the lock on the door. Further
instructions are contained within your hand over pack.
The service button on the door entry panels is to allow access for postmen and the like to your
building during a set time period (typically 6.30am to 11.30am)to make deliveries. When the
service button is pushed on the panel at the front door between the set times it will automatically
open the door.
Power failure- in the event of a power failure the front door will automatically unlock (this is to
ensure that access for the fire brigade or other emergency services is maintained if the door entry
system is not working due to a power failure).
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FLAT ENTRY DOORS
Your flat has been fitted with a fire rated door set with a Briton overhead heavy duty door closer
to ensure that the door is self closing. Occupants should not disconnect or otherwise restrict the
operation of the overhead door closer as its function is to ensure that the flat entrance door
closes by itself to maintain the fire security of the flat and communal stairwell.
Door operating instructions- to lock the flat entry door from the inside lift the handle (to activate
the multi point locking) and return it to the horizontal then turn the thumb turn fully towards
the locking side of the door. To open the door from the inside, turn the thumb-turn in the
opposite direction and open the door using the handle. To lock the door from the outside lift the
handle and return it to the horizontal and turn key fully towards the locking side of the door.
Open the door by turning key in opposite direction and using handle. NOTE - excessive force
should not be required or used to lock or unlock the door.
- 18 -
Clean the door with a liquid detergent (we recommend a normal washing up detergent) applied
with a soft sponge or cloth. Wipe from top down to dry. Handles should be cleaned with a soft
non abrasive cloth and for stubborn stains mild soapy water may be used. Do not use abrasive or
corrosive material to clean the ironmongery as this will damage the finish.
The multi point locking system should be lubricated with WD40, or a similar product, on a
regular basis to ensure the smooth operating capabilities of the cylinder, handle and the locking
mechanism.
The fire and smoke seals to sides, head and bottom of your flat entry door and the operation of
the ironmongery and door closer should be checked periodically and if any defect is found or if
any unequal gaps form between the door leaf and its frame then repairs should be carried out as
soon as possible.
INTERNAL DOORS
Handles should be cleaned with a soft non abrasive cloth and for stubborn stains mild soapy
water may be used. Care should be taken to avoid scratching surface of handles.
The mechanism of the handle should be lubricated once a year with a light oil.
Hinges and latches/locks should be lubricated on a regular basis with WD40 or similar product.
FIRE RATED INTERNAL DOORS
In flats some of the internal doors are required to be fire rated to comply with building control
requirements (30 minute fire resistance). These doors can be easily identified because they have
door closers and fire/smoke seals fitted.
These fire rated doors are for your safety and are designed to give you time to safely leave the flat
should a fire break out in one of the rooms. The door closers must not be disconnected or
removed or otherwise restricted as their function is to ensure that the door closes by itself in
order to maintain fire security for the flats occupants.
The integral smoke and intumescent fire seals (recessed into the door side and top frames) have
brush seals to protect from smoke. The brush seals must not be over-painted as this reduces
their effectiveness.
The operation of the door closer and the integrity of the fire and smoke seals should be checked
periodically and repaired if any defect is found.
If replacing any of these fire rated internal door leafs in the future, a door which has a FD30 fire
door rating and fire-rated ironmongery must be used. Any replacement doors must also be fitted
with a suitable self closing mechanism (such as the door closers currently fitted) and fire/smoke
seals.
WALL TILING
Wall tiles and in particular the grout between tiles should be regularly cleaned using a proprietary
tile/grout cleaner in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Grout should be inspected
and any areas which become loose should be replaced.
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The sealant between the wall tiling and any worktops should be inspected and replaced as
necessary.
SHOWER WALL PANELLING (WHERE FITTED)
Laminate wall panelling (where fitted) should be cleaned by using hot water and a mild detergent
applied with soft cloths or soft nylon brush. Non scratch cleaners may also be used. On no
account should scouring pads, acid based toilet cleaners or limescale cleaners be used.
Wall panelling and shower enclosure/tray should be dried off after use. Abrasive or aggressive
cleaning products should not be used as they will damage the laminate surface of the panel.
The sealant around the base of the wall panel should be inspected and replaced as necessary to
prevent water ingress between the shower tray and the panelling.
INTERNAL DRAINAGE
Soil and vent stacks run vertically through your flat and they serve all flats above and below you
as applicable to the location of your flat. The soil stacks are hidden within plasterboard faced
ducts and bulkheads and have access panels located at points where access may be required in
the future if maintenance work is being carried out.
Picture of a typical plastic access panel;
These access panels are recessed into the plasterboard and have a hinged fully removable door
for easy and convenient access. They can be painted over, if required, during any future redecoration work that you may carry out. Please note that these access panels should not be
removed or sealed up – they are there to allow fast access to rodding or drainage access points –
access will be required if, for example, a blockage occurs in the soil pipe or during maintenance
works.
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FLOOR FINISHES
Please note that any wooden flooring or other feature flooring such as tiles or adhered
‘Karndean’ (or similar flooring) laid by you when you move into your home will not be lifted and
re-laid as a result of any maintenance work which may require access under the floor. If
maintenance work is required to any part of a floor or to any under-floor services we will require
you to arrange the lifting and reinstatement of any feature flooring to allow us access.
Notes regarding concrete floors (normally ground floors) – concrete floors in your home have
been finished to the standard tolerances obtainable by the material. Before laying floor coverings
such as vinyl or wooden overlay flooring to concrete floors you should be aware that some
important steps should be taken by you;
(1) You should have your floor covering installer check the moisture content of the
concrete floor. This is particularly important if you are laying the floor covering
immediately after moving into your home, as the concrete floor may still be drying out
and moisture can affect some flooring materials. If necessary you should allow the
concrete floor to dry out sufficiently before laying any flooring which may be affected by
moisture or the concrete floor should be treated in accordance with the flooring
supplier’s recommendations before installing any vinyl or wooden or other feature type
flooring.
(2) Concrete floors will normally need a self levelling screed applied prior to laying any vinyl
or overlay type floor covering, again in accordance with the floor covering installers
recommendations.
Notes regarding Chipboard Flooring - Chipboard flooring (normally to the first and second
floors) should be prepared in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations prior to fitting
of vinyls, wooden overlays or ceramic floor tiles. Also note that chipboard flooring may have
service ducts installed (sections of flooring which can be removed to allow access to pipes and
other services). We have installed these ducts so that they are level with the adjacent floor –
however it should be noted that, because timber floors naturally shrink as they dry, this drying
out may result in minor differences in level between the duct cover and the surrounding floor.
This may become evident with some types of thin floor coverings and your choice of floor
coverings should take this possibility into account.
ROOF SPACE (WHERE APPLICABLE)
The attic space ( applicable to top floor flats only) has not been designed to allow for storage. Do
not use the attic space for storage. Flooring the roof space and using it for storage may cause
deflection in the roof structure resulting in problems such as cracks appearing in your ceiling.
The attic has mineral wool insulation between and over ceiling joists. This insulation can cause
skin irritation. If handling the insulation it is recommended that appropriate protective clothing
and equipment be worn.
Care should also be taken if entering the attic – the ceiling plasterboard between the joists will
not support your weight and there may be service pipes, extract fan ducting and cables hidden by
the insulation that you can damage by inadvertently stepping on them.
An access hatch has been provided in the hall ceiling of top floor flats and this is intended only
to be used by tradesmen for attic space inspection or maintenance work.
It is advised that you do not enter the attic space.
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CONSTRUCTION OF WALLS, PARTITIONS, FLOORS
& CEILINGS
The following notes provide, for your information, outline details of the construction for each
part of your flat. This information is generalised and particular areas of your flat may differ.
External walls:
The external walls comprise a 100mm thick block-work outer leaf, 100mm
wide cavity (with 50mm thick polyisocyanurate PIR partial fill cavity wall
insulation boards) and 140mm thick concrete block-work inner leaf. The
outside has drydash roughcast and the inside (flat side) has a further layer of
50mm thick polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation installed to the inside of the
block-work inner leaf, 50mm metal framing forming a service void and
finished internally with 12.5mm thick vapourshield plasterboard linings
which have been taped, filled and decorated. Safety Note – all external
walls are load bearing and designed to achieve fire and acoustic building
regulation requirements and must not be altered.
Party Walls (Flats): Walls between your flat and adjoining neighbouring flat - where applicable.
These walls comprise a 215mm thick solid block-work wall with sand
cement render on both sides. Then, on both sides of the solid block-work
wall there is 15mm thick acoustic plasterboard linings on 50mm metal
framing forming a service void. One side also has a layer of 50mm thick
sound absorbent insulation behind the metal framing. Safety Note – all
party walls are load bearing and are constructed to a fire resistant/ acoustic
specification – they must not be altered in any way.
Party Walls (Flat to Stairwell):
Walls between your flat and the stairwell. These walls comprise a 215mm
thick solid block-work wall with a coat of sand cement render. On the flat
side a layer of 60mm thick polysiocyanurate (PIR) insulation is installed
then a layer of 50mm thick sound absorbent insulation and 50mm thick
metal framing and a layer of 15mm thick acoustic plasterboard, taped and
filled and decorated. Safety Note – all party walls are load bearing and are
constructed to a fire resistant/ acoustic specification – they must not be
altered in any way.
All partitions:
70mm thick metal framing forming partitions with 15mm thick acoustic
plasterboard linings each side, taped, filled and decorated. Mineral wool
acoustic insulation is fitted in the partitions to bedroom, bathroom and the
like areas. SAFETY NOTE – some internal walls may be loadbearing. Do
not remove or alter load bearing partitions, or make substantial alterations
to them, without getting professional advice.
Ground floors:
Concrete floor slab on rigid insulation. The ground floor also incorporates a
carbon dioxide membrane located under the floor – please refer to the
Section ‘Carbon Dioxide Membrane’ for more information.
Floors (flat separating floors);
Separating floors between ground and first (and first and second) floor flats
comprise (from floor to ceiling below) 22mm thick chipboard flooring on
an acoustic batten/saddle system with 25mm acoustic insulation installed
between the battens, on 50mm minimum thickness sand / cement screed
on 200mm thick precast concrete floor slabs. The ceiling under the precast
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concrete floor slabs comprises a metal framed suspended ceiling system (to
form a service void) fixed to the underside of the concrete floor slabs and a
layer of 12.5mm thick acoustic plasterboard, taped, filled and decorated.
Safety note – all flat separating floors are load bearing and designed in
accordance with the building regulations in respect of fire and acoustic
requirements – the separating floors must not be altered in any way.
Top floor Ceilings: Horizontal Ceilings; (top floor flats only) 12.5mm thick plasterboard fixed
to the underside of the roof trusses with a 350mm thick layer of mineral
wool insulation above. Insulated ceiling access hatches are installed where
access for maintenance may be required in the future.
Sloping Ceilings; (top floor flats only) 12.5mm thick vapourcheck
plasterboard fixed to underside of rafters with 150mm thick PIR insulation
board fitted between the rafters.
Future alterations – should you consider making any alterations to your home in the
future such as altering the partition layout or forming a new opening through a wall you
should check relevant Local Authority permissions and/or use the services of a qualified
architect before starting.
The ground floors, external wall service voids, internal partitions, first and second floor
voids, ceiling and attic space all have services such as pipes and cables installed in them
– refer to the safety precautions below if installing any fixings into these parts of your
home.
Appropriate proprietary fixings should always be used to suit the wall construction (see below).
FIXING TO WALLS, CEILINGS OR FLOORS –
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Wall fixings (for pictures, mirrors etc.) must be of the appropriate type for the type of walls
described above. Be very careful if nailing or drilling into walls, ceilings or floors to avoid contact
with any pipes or electric cables which may lie hidden behind the surface. We recommend that
you use a services detector (cable detector) before drilling or nailing – it can reduce the risk of
serious injury. If using power tools to install a fixing, you should always use a R.C.D. (residual
current device). You should also always check for pipes and cables before drilling or nailing into
floors or ceilings.
In addition to the above please note that fixings should never be made to the following wall
areas:a)
Directly above or below any electrical socket outlet, switch or appliance.
b)
Directly horizontal to any electrical socket outlet, switch or appliance.
This is because electrical cables run in these areas.
Note for anyflat with under-floor heating (if applicable) - you should never drill or nail into any
floor which has under-floor heating fitted.
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EXTERNAL FIXINGS
Any external fixings should only be made with consideration to the Deed of Conditions.
COMMUNAL STAIRWELL
Please note the following points with regards to communal stairwell areas;
1. The stairwell is a fire escape route for you and your neighbouring flats. Please do not
leave anything in the stairwell which could cause an obstruction or hazard to anyone
exiting the building in an emergency. Keep the stairwell clean and tidy so that in any
emergency it can be used safely.
2. The windows in the stairwell are non-locking as they have to be easily opened in an
emergency by the fire brigade for use in clearing smoke. The windows should
normally be kept closed.
3. The stairwell front and back doors are fitted with overhead door closers to ensure that
the doors are self closing. This is for your safety and security- please do not
disconnect or otherwise restrict the operation of these door closers or prop open the
doors. Please ensure stairwell external doors are securely closed after use.
4. The stairwell services cupboard (on ground floor under the stair) and stairwell service
risers contain services such as pipework, cables, mains electricity distribution boards,
telephone apparatus and control panels for the door entry, TV and electrical systems
and the like. Occupants of the flats should not attempt to open service riser access
hatches or service cupboard doors- the equipment contained within can be dangerous.
5. Stairwell Lighting- the stairwell lighting includes emergency lighting (with battery back
ups fitted). In the event of any loss of power these emergency lights will come on to
allow the stairs to be used safely. PIR sensors operate the stairwell lights under normal
circumstances. If you suspect that a fault has developed with the stairwell lighting
please report it to the scheme manager.
6. Please note that the power sockets in the stairwell are for maintenance personnel use
only.
7. The green ‘emergency door release’ points located on the wall next to the front and
back doors are for emergency use only- they will operate the door entry system to
release the lock on the door. You should use the lever handle on the inside of the
external stairwell doors for normal day-today use.
COMMUNAL PARKING
There is a communal car parking area located to the rear of your block of flats for your and your
neighbours’ use (it will also be used by a neighbouring block of flats). The Scheme Manager will
allocate one of these spaces to you. Visitor spaces will also be available.
The Scheme Manager will be responsible for the maintenance and repair of the car parking areas.
MOCK CHIMNEYS
Chimneys (if installed on your block) are lightweight GRP architectural features. They have been
independently tested in respect of wind load resistance, hygrothermal test (extremes of heat/rain
and freeze/thaw cycles) and water ingress and passed the strictest testing requirements.
- 24 -
Note that the chimney is not designed to support additional loadings such as satellite dishes or
TV aerials or other such apparatus. Do not attempt to install any fixings to the mock chimney.
EFFLORESCENCE
For your information - The appearance of a white deposit on external walls is caused by
‘efflorescence’. This is a consequence of drying out and can often occur after a new house is
constructed and is drying out. It can also occur when a wall dries out after period of heavy rain or
in the spring as a result of drying out after a wet winter. As well as external wall materials such as
block-work and mortar joints, it can also occur on products such as precast window sills,
driveway paviors and paving slabs and also internally on concrete floors and areas of similar
construction.
The efflorescence is caused by natural salts being drawn out of the wall materials while drying out
and is quite normal. It is neither harmful nor detrimental to the performance of the material and,
whilst it may look unsightly, the majority usually disappears over time. The advice given by most
brick, block, cement and precast concrete manufacturers is that it is best dealt with by the
combined effect of time and weather. If efflorescence occurs externally on your home it is our
policy to follow this advice and allow it to disappear naturally. It will usually disappear within a
few weeks, washed away by normal rainfall. This process may take some time to draw out and
remove all of the natural salts causing the efflorescence however it should be apparent that each
time the efflorescence appears it will be in decreasing amounts.
If efflorescence occurs on internal concrete floors or other such areas then it can be removed by
brushing with a non metallic brush and then removing the deposits with a vacuum cleaner.
Internally occurring efflorescence should disappear quicker after brushing and vacuuming than
external efflorescence as the home is dried out by the heating.
Should persistent efflorescence occur internally which does not disappear after removing it by the
methods described above, then please contact Scotia or the Scheme Manager for further advice.
EXTERNAL AREAS
The external areas around the block of flats will be maintained by the scheme manager. However
please read the following general notes which contain important points for your information
relating to your use of the external areas.
Manholes give access to the drains, usually where branches join together, do not obstruct or
cover them with soil or large plant pots or the like. They may need to be accessed quickly if there
is a blockage. Please note that there are live underground services cables in the ground around
your house. Great care MUST be taken if digging or carrying out excavation work in the vicinity
of live underground cable routes.
Underground cables may be found just below the surface, although they are normally laid
between 0.45m to 1.0m deep from the surface. Reduced depth may result from ground
disturbance after laying or because the cable had to be laid over an underground obstruction.
Even shallow excavations (e.g. for post holing and fencing work or for garden features such as
ponds) may be a source of danger. If you do uncover a cable during excavation work - ALWAYS
assume it is live. If in any doubt contact a qualified person to seek advice before carrying out
excavation work.
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External Areas (General Notes)
Damage – Walking on turf before it has properly settled in can cause considerable damage.
Dents and hollows made on new turf will not disappear and are often difficult to repair. It
usually takes about a month to become firm enough to walk on, but this can vary according to
weather and soil conditions.
Damp Proof Courses – there are damp proof courses built into your external walls to prevent
damp from the ground soaking up the outside walls. These are normally approximately 150mm
from the ground level around your house. It is important that these damp proof courses are kept
clear – if you are carrying out any landscaping or ground-works alongside your external walls
then please ensure that you do not cover these damp proof courses or otherwise bridge them,
allowing damp to rise up past the damp proof course.
CARBON DIOXIDE MEMBRANE
There is a carbon dioxide gas membrane under the concrete ground floor and an external gravel
filled trench around the perimeter of your block which allows any carbon dioxide which may
collect from the surrounding ground to disperse to the outside air. Should you intend to carry
out any work involving alterations to the ground floor which would involve puncturing the
carbon dioxide membrane then it should be protected/ reinstated in accordance with the
manufacturer’s recommendations.
The gravel filled trench around your block should not be altered – do not remove it and replace
it with an impermeable surface such as paving slabs, or cover it with topsoil. If the gravel surface
of the trench becomes blocked with silt or soil then the gravel should be cleaned or the top layer
replaced with clean gravel to ensure that any carbon dioxide can disperse to the outside air.
SURFACE AND RAIN WATER DRAINAGE
CONSIDERATIONS
The scheme manager will maintain the surface and rain water drainage systems serving your flat,
however there are some important points relating to the drainage that you should be aware of.
Please read the following points:
1. Design Matters. We have designed the rainwater and parking drainage to comply with
Local Authority Regulations (such as planning, building control and roads construction
consent conditions) and SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) requirements
including SUDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems) requirements. In simplified terms
these regulations require us to ensure that the drainage systems designed and installed
around your block of flats collects any rainwater which falls onto your block and
surrounding area and drains it away in a responsible manner. It is common for the
regulations to require that the rainwater falling on your garden ground is attenuated
within your plot boundary and encouraged to soak away into the surrounding ground
rather than running off your plot into the local authority drainage system. This practice
minimises the risk of the local authority drainage systems becoming over-loaded in
periods of high rainfall therefore reducing the possibility of flooding.
2. Alterations to your garden/ landscaped ground. Removal of garden areas and installation
of, for example, impermeable patio areas or areas of other hard standing will reduce the
area of ground available to soak up rainwater and could lead to flooding problems if
adequate additional drainage is not installed at the same time. Any alterations to the
garden ground around your block should take this into account and reference should
also be made to the Deed of Conditions.
- 26 -
3. Avoiding Blocked Drains. The foul drainage system from your flat is designed to take
used water from sinks, showers, baths and toilet waste. The drainage is not designed to
take inappropriate items such as wipes (baby, personal cleaning and the like), sanitary
items, cotton wool, cotton buds, disposable nappies, cooking fat or oil or grease and the
like. Scottish Water, who maintain the drainage network in the streets, have to deal with
on average 40,000 blocked drains every year across Scotland- blocked drains can lead to
flooding of your property and your neighbouring properties. Around 80% of these
blocked drains are caused by inappropriate items being put down the toilet or fat, oil or
grease being put down the sink. Please ensure that you do not dispose of inappropriate
items into your drainage system. Refer to the Scottish Water leaflet included in your
hand over pack for more information.
4. Water Butts. If you intend to install a water butt to one or more of the rainwater
downpipes please ensure that you also fit an over-flow back into the rainwater downpipe
(to avoid the water butt over-flowing and causing flooding) and that any water butts are
located in accordance with any relevant Deed of Conditions and where they will not
cause an obstruction for other users. Kits for water butt overflows are available in any
good garden centre.
METERS
The Electric meter is located in the cupboard located next to your flat entry door.
The Gas meter is located in either:
(a) an external semi-concealed ground meter box (applicable to some ground floor flats)
(b) Or internally in a hall cupboard.
LOCAL AUTHORITY REFUSE AND RECYCLING
COLLECTION
The development has been planned to incorporate the required storage stances for wheeled bins
and routes for collection vehicles. Aberdeen City Council has responsibility for refuse collection
at Charleston, Cove and, at the time of writing, will provide appropriate bins to each plot on
completion. It remains your responsibility for making these bins available for collection on the
designated days in accordance with good practice and the Council’s policies and to ensure that
your bins are stored in the designated fenced bin enclosure area when they are not awaiting
collection.
As your own property is within a block with communal access, the Local Authority provides
larger bins for this situation. It will be the collective responsibility of all residents within your
block to ensure that these bins are made available for collection at a kerbside location on the
designated day/s, along with their return to the rear communal bin store area after they have
been emptied.
The bins provided will include 1280 litre bin/s (1430mm long x 985mm deep x 1260mm wide
approx) and a food recycling bin (including internal container and housing). Proper care and
attention should be taken when handling these bins, for further information regarding operation
and safe handling, please refer to Aberdeen City Council guidelines.
Should you have any queries or need advice regarding Waste and Recycling, perhaps for
additional bins, advice on special collections or waste collection calendars in your area, please
contact the Aberdeen City Council Waste Team on 0845 6080919 or
[email protected], http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
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COUNCIL TAX
The local authority will be aware of the new homes which are within your development, with a
responsibility for payment of council tax falling upon the new owner (yourself). The authority
will have made a banding valuation for your own property type and will issue payment
instructions and schedules accordingly.
Should you not receive confirmation of this from Aberdeen City Council or have any questions,
please contact their Revenues and Benefits team at:
Corporate Governance
Business Hub 16
Third Floor West, Marischal College
Broad Street
Aberdeen
AB10 1AB
Email: [email protected]
Fax: 01224 346700
Website: http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
SCHEDULE OF TEST CERTIFICATES
ALPHA INTEC GAS BOILER
Installation and servicing instructions (including service record) are contained in your hand over
pack.
- 28 -
SCHEDULE OF MATERIALS
Item
Description
Windows
Internal Doors Leafs
Flat Entry Doorsets
Skirting boards &
Facings
Ironmongery for internal
doors
Kitchen Units, Worktops
and appliances
Kitchen sink
Sanitary-ware
Taps
Central Heating + Hot
Water System
Radiators
Radiator Valves
Switches & Sockets
Extract Fans
CO2 Barrier (under
ground floor)
Paint to Walls
Paint to skirting boards
etc.
White uPVC inwards opening
Sheerframe 7000 tilt and turn
or reversible style windows
Jeld-Wen Arlington 6 panel
smooth heavy weight (FD30
fire rated where necessary)
Jeld-Wen Arlington FD30 fire
rated door-set
MDF ogee 7 skirting boards
and Ogee facings
Heritage Windsor Chrome
Laings Directline Range with
Duropal Worktops
Leisure 1.5 bowl stainless steel
sink
Ideal Standard Alto 55cm basin
and semi pedestal to bathroom.
Ideal Standard Ventuno 1700 x
700 bath. Ideal standard alto
WC pan close coupled with
Alto cistern and Alto seat and
cover.
Bristan Ruby monobloc deck
sink mixer (kitchen), Bristan
Prism basin mixer and Bristan
Prism mono bath filler.
Alpha Intec 34C and associated
components
Myson Premier HE
Danfoss RASC2 (10mm or
15mm)
Mode Range
Greenwood Airvac Unity
CV2GIP Dmev mechanical
extract fans
Visqueen CO2 (carbon dioxide)
membrane (and associated
components including damp
proof course and top hat units)
Glidden Contract Matt
Emulsion
Dulux Eggshell
Supplied by
Tel No.
International Doors &
Windows
01224 682229
International Doors &
Windows
Fleming Buildbase
01224 682229
George Boyd
01224 685541
James Laing & Son Ltd,
Inverurie, Aberdeenshire
William Wilson
01467 620311
William Wilson
01224 335328
William Wilson
01224 335328
Northern Heating
01224 663322
Northern Heating
Northern Heating
01224 663322
01224 663322
Holland House
Holland House
01224 638129
01224 638129
Keyline Builders
Merchants, Dundee
01382 448600
Dulux Decorator Centre
01224 573044
Dulux Decorator Centre
01224 573044
CMS Enviro Systems
01324 841398
01224 258200
01224 335328
Note - Not all items or colours are applicable to all properties
Scotia Homes Limited
Balmacassie, Ellon, AB41 8QR ● Tel: 01358 722441 ● Fax: 01358 723499
Email: [email protected] ● www.scotia-homes.co.uk
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